Hamas reportedly agrees to proposal including 60-day ceasefire

The Islamic group Hamas has reportedly agreed to a proposal that includes a 60-day ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

The move followed an announcement by Israel that it would expand military operations in Gaza amid stalled ceasefire negotiations.

Israeli Defense Forces Chief of the General Staff Eyal Zamir said on Sunday that Israel would continue to strike Gaza until Hamas was decisively defeated.

Hamas issued a statement on Monday saying it has approved the proposal, which was presented by Egyptian and Qatari mediators.

Local media say the proposal includes a 60-day suspension of fighting and a resumption of negotiations to end the conflict.

The proposal stipulates that Hamas will release 10 living hostages, who account for one fifth of the total hostages held captive in Gaza.

It also says 600 trucks will be allowed to enter Gaza daily to deliver aid supplies.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement on Monday that people can be impressed by one thing -- "Hamas is under immense pressure."

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